We live in a "What have you done for me lately?" world. Maybe that's a mistake.

Some young players need time to grow. Some experienced players can go through a down year and bounce back. Some old players shouldn't be kicked to the curb quite yet. And some injury-riddled players cannot be forgotten.

It's a good thing I'm such a positive person.

Here are nine players I still believe in:

1) Percy Harvin, WR, Seattle Seahawks

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2) Ryan Clady, LT, Denver Broncos

Remember: This guy is arguably the best left tackle in the NFL. If you don't believe me, ask Peyton.

"Getting Ryan back, it's about, it's kind of like signing a free agent or having a top pick in the draft," Manning told the assembled media in late May. "He is the top left tackle out there. It's certainly nice to have him back."

I believe Schaub is a solid player who had a bad year. He'll give the Raiders a chance to win games in 2014 while serving as a mentor for rookie Derek Carr.

4) Jeremy Maclin, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

DeSean Jackson became a problem for Chip Kelly, so the coach jettisoned his leading receiver. (Yes, that's how you translate the amusingly vague "football reasons" explanation.) It was a major statement. But Kelly also knew he was getting back Maclin.

Maclin, of course, tore his ACL last July and missed out on all the fun of Kelly's first season. While the sixth-year pro won't stretch the field like Jackson, I bet he reaches 82 catches (the amount Jackson hauled in last season) and shines as a prime-time target for Nick Foles in Kelly's high-octane attack.

5) Geno Smith, QB, New York Jets

It feels weird to include a second-year pro on an "I still believe" list, but given Geno's yo-yo neophyte campaign, the Jets' signing of Michael Vick and the overall scrutiny that comes with quarterbacking in New York, I'm compelled to do so.

This offseason, the Jets added receiver Eric Decker and running back Chris Johnson in free agency while spending a second-round draft pick on tight end Jace Amaro. This definitely helps. And the game should slow down for Geno in Year 2.

I just hope Gang Green doesn't foul this up by starting Vick. The 2014 season should be about developing Geno Smith as their quarterback of the present and future.

8) Steve Smith, WR, Baltimore Ravens

Yes, Smith posted the second-lowest yards-per-catch average of his career at 11.6 (not counting the 2004 campaign, when he played just one game). But it was illogical for the Panthers to release him, given their paper-thin receiving corps.

Baltimore needed to add more talent at receiver. Frankly, the Ravens needed somebody with a killer instinct who can be a tone setter in practice, during games and in the locker room. This mentality had left the building with the departures of Ray Lewis and Ed Reed.

Smith is supremely motivated. In my chat with Eric DeCosta on SiriusXM, the Ravens' assistant general manager raved about the qualities that Smith brings to the table.

Smith has always played with the proverbial chip on his shoulder, but in 2014, it's a boulder.

9) Trent Richardson, RB, Indianapolis Colts

Maybe I'm the last man standing on the Trent Richardson bandwagon -- and it's understandable if that is indeed the case. Last year, Richardson had trouble staying upright while carrying the football, which is a significant problem for a runner.

Here's what I believe: Trent Richardson has talent. He was deflated after the Cleveland Browns abruptly shipped him out of town in a shocking trade. Then he had to learn a new playbook -- and familiarize himself with new teammates -- on the fly in Indy.

Will he ever live up to his draft slot (third overall in 2012)? That's up for debate. But I think he can be a really productive piece for Andrew Luck and the reigning AFC South champion Colts.